VW tells dealers to stop selling 4 models

DETROIT — Volkswagen is telling U.S. dealers to stop selling some of its most popular cars until transmission fluid leaks can be fixed.

Spokesman Scott Vazin says the order covers about 25,000 Jetta, Passat, Beetle, and Beetle convertible models equipped with 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engines and automatic transmissions. They were built after Feb. 1.

An “O-ring” that links a transmission fluid line to a cooler can fail and cause leaks, potentially causing a fire. Mr. Vazin says no fires or crashes have been reported. VW plans to replace the defective parts.

About half the cars remain on dealer lots. Mr. Vazin says VW is working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on how to fix the cars that have been sold.

He says owners with questions about their cars should contact their dealers.